Prostate cancer fairly preventable

Mon, 06/07/2010 - 11:16amadmin

To the Editor:

I was saddened to hear about Hollywood legend Dennis Hopper’s death due to prostate cancer. I know Americans will miss him, and as a health care professional, I know people are also looking for ways to protect themselves from this life-threatening disease.

One man in six will get prostate cancer during his lifetime—but the disease is actually fairly preventable. Scientific studies have found that eating less meat may significantly reduce the risk of prostate cancer.

In a recent study, researchers looked at more than 175,000 men and found that those who consumed the most red meat had a 30 percent increased risk of cancer, compared with those who consumed the least. Processed red meat was associated with a 10 percent increased risk of prostate cancer with every 10 grams of increased intake. And grilling and barbecuing were associated with an even higher risk.

But there is some good news: Research shows that a low-fat diet rich in fruits, vegetables, and whole grains can reduce the incidence of prostate cancer. This Father’s Day, let’s share this life-saving information with all the men in our families. For more information, go to www.CancerProject.org.

Sincerely,

Joseph Gonzales, R.D.

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